Influence of Family History of Cancer on Engagement in Protective Health Behaviors

Amuta, Ann O.; Barry, Adam E.

American Journal of Health Education, v46 n3 p157-164 2015

Background: Approximately 1580 people die from cancer each day. Family history is highlighted as an especially important indicator of cancer risk. Purpose: To determine whether having a family member with cancer influences preventive behaviors (e.g., smoking, physical activity, and screenings). Methods: We conducted a secondary data analysis (regression) of the 2014 Health Information National Trends Survey (HINTS). Results: The sample was primarily married (48%) females (61.37%; n = 1614). Most participants had a family member diagnosed with cancer (64.33%; n = 1661). Family history did not significantly influence routine screening behavior (ß = 0.016, odds ratio [OR] = 1.068, 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.751-1.520, P = 0.708); lifetime smoking status (ß = 0.04, OR = 1.19, 95% CI, 0.84-1.69, P = 0.312); current smoking status (ß = - 0.022, OR = 0.955, 95% CI, 0.433-2.105, P = 0.907); or physical activity behavior (ß = - 0.04, 95% CI, - 23.13 to 5.15, P = 0.207). Discussion When compared to those without a positive family history, respondents with a history of cancer did not engage in significantly different levels of protective lifestyle behaviors. Translation to Health Education Practice: Family history status is an influential factor on one's risk of disease and perhaps should be emphasized and incorporate into health education interventions.